God Has Thoughts and Plans to Bless you by Wanda Hollingsworth
Wanda Hollingsworth
Lately, the Lord has been directing me to a scripture revealing an area of His heart towards me - Jeremiah 29:11. Even though this was given to the Israelites while in Babylon, it continues to speak of God’s heart toward His people today. God’s word is alive and He uses stories to reveal His love towards us. He knows and identifies with our struggles; the trauma from our experiences, the pain of loss, and the distress of the heart when we’re going through long term things that we can’t seem to fix.
Let’s examine this scripture more closely.
“For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you.” Jeremiah 29:11, KJV.
In the amplified version we read: “For I know the thoughts and plans I have for you, says the Lord, thoughts and plans for welfare and peace and not evil, to give you hope and a final outcome.” Jer. 29:11.
God knows everything about us, the good, bad and ugly. He sees and knows the things where we need His help. Things that upset and distress us. The traumas that we experienced and the longing and places where we feel stuck. He is with us when we feel the burdens of broken systems and when we are subject to injustices. I could go on and on with the list, as I think of my own path and walk with the Lord, when I did not understanding how to bring change, and felt the pain in the distressed areas of my own emotions. But, the Good News is that He has a plan in the midst of the mess!
He knows the plans ( or thoughts) that He has towards us, and He gives us what we need to come into a place of Shalom or Peace. His purposes are to bring us Shalom, not evil. God’s plan is for restoration in the world, and He knows and sees us individually. We are in His thoughts. You are in His thoughts!
One of the most important words in this passage of scripture is “prosperity.” The word prosper in Hebrew means Shalom and Peace, but the depth of the word goes far beyond that. It is a beautifully layered word that means peace, and so much more. It speaks of wholeness, restoration, a setting right of things, and fullness of life. He understands our physical, emotional, social and spiritual well being.
As I started sharing this word with others, I realized God wanted to declare Shalom to them and their circumstances. His word declared, brought great peace and joy, knowing God saw and knew what they were going through. He wanted to give them peace and a hope.
So Beloved ones, today I declare Shalom over you and into your circumstances; for the God of Peace wants to release His peace and renewed hope to you, as you rest in His plans and thoughts toward you.. Know He is working all things out for you, as you keep your mind and heart towards Him.
“ You will keep in perfect and constant peace the one whose mind is steadfast [that is, committed and focused on You - in both inclination and character]. Because he trusts and takes refuge in You [with hope and confident expectation]. Isaiah 26:3 Amp.
“ …the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:7.
“…and we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28.
Blessings,
Your Sister in Christ
Wanda
Wanda Hollingsworth has served in active ministry for over 45 years, including teaching, preaching, counseling, and as a missionary living in Hungary and Honduras. She has touched many nations, while experiencing the various cultures. She received formal Christian training in prophetic ministry, leadership, discipleship, evangelism, theology, and prayer ministry. Upon completing her studies with Elijah House Ministries under John and Paula Sanford in 2009, she has since served as an ordained prayer counselor and teacher under The Covenant Center ministries. Wanda considers herself a “Little Lover of God” and wants to share with others His compassion and love.
Contact: info@thecovenantcenter.com